With the constant unpredictability of the crypto market and the recent upheavals among top crypto exchanges and companies, self-custody is becoming more crucial than ever. Cold storage is no longer a nice-to-have, but a must, and crypto users who value the security of their assets would be wise to invest in a reliable hardware wallet.

Out of all the models to choose from, one of the best is the hardware wallet that started it all, the Trezor Model One.

Since Model One's initial release in 2014, it has proven to be a secure and trustworthy choice for the crypto community, even compared to newer models. Manufactured by Satoshi Labs, it packs top-notch security features into a portable, user-friendly design, offering a safe place for crypto users of all levels to store their digital assets. 

Here's our rundown of its features:

Design and Usability

Trezor Model One was designed for portability and ease of use. At 60x30x6 mm in size and weighing just 12 grams, it is compact, lightweight, and convenient to carry anywhere. The casing is made of ABS thermoplastic and is X-ray safe, which is a plus for frequent travelers. 

The device hooks up to your computer or mobile via USB. It features a two-button interface engineered to withstand over 200,000 clicks and a clear 128x64 pixel OLED display. 

To access the assets in the device, you need to download the Trezor Suite or open it via web browser. You can also connect your device to third-party apps like Metamask. Trezor Model One supports multiple cryptocurrencies. In addition, it can also be used to store NFTs by connecting the device to a third-party wallet.

Getting started with Trezor Model One is simple. All you have to do is connect the wallet to your computer, follow the setup instructions, and download the Trezor Suite.

Security

Security is where Trezor Model One truly excels. You can rest assured that your funds stay offline and protected at all times. Since the wallet has no battery included, the only way to access your wallet is by connecting it to your computer via USB, and all transactions need to be confirmed manually by entering your device's customizable PIN on your computer. 

Trezor Model One uses a cleverly designed 3x3 blind PIN matrix which shows up on the wallet display for you to input into your computer. You'll notice when setting up your PIN that the position of the numbers randomly shuffles every time you connect your device. This gives you an extra layer of protection from hackers and keyloggers attempting to steal your funds without physical access to the wallet itself. In case someone steals the physical device, the thief will find it very difficult to brute-force the PIN since the wallet is programmed to increment the unlock countdown timer every time the wrong PIN combination is entered.

The security features extend to the hardware itself. When you buy a new Trezor Model One, it comes with a tamper-evident security seal that guarantees that your device has not been compromised. Trezor also does not does not collect identifying data from your device. For further protection, it offers advanced privacy features that ensure your transactions remain anonymous.

Compatibility and Performance

Trezor Model One syncs with the Trezor Suite as well as Tor, Locktime, Sign & Verify, Taproot, and other programs meant to enhance security and ease of use.  It also comes with a portfolio tracker built into the Trezor Suite that lets you view your transaction history and manage your entire portfolio at a glance. Its hardware is impressive as well‚Äî powered by a 120 MHz embedded ARM processor and built to withstand extreme temperatures, you can rely on it to safeguard your digital assets anywhere in the world.

Backup and Recovery

Trezor wallets let you set up a recovery seedphrase so you can backup and recover your account if your device gets lost, stolen, or damaged. Simply enter your backup on another Trezor hardware wallet and you can instantly access your funds once more. If ever you get locked out of your device because you have forgotten your PIN, you need to factory reset the device. However, you can still restore your account using the recovery seedphrase.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Pros:

• Unmatched Security: The combination of manual confirmations, a changing PIN grid, and the option for a passphrase makes it one of the most secure wallets available.
• Privacy Assurance: Advanced privacy features ensure transaction confidentiality.
• User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use, this hardware wallet suits beginners and experts alike. It is easy to set up, transport, and store.
• Strong Recovery Options: Reliable backup and recovery mechanisms such as the recovery seedphrase safeguard your assets.
• Durable: The device's clickable buttons are designed to last.
• Affordable: Packed with features, it offers great value for its price.

Cons:

• Screen Limitations: The small screen size can be challenging for some users, especially those with vision difficulties.
• Limited Crypto Support: Although it supports many coins, certain Layer One networks are not supported.
• Physical Durability: The thermoplastic build may feel less durable compared to other premium models.

Overall, Trezor Model One is a wise choice if you're searching for a hardware wallet that is both reliable and user-friendly. Since its launch, the Trezor Model One has maintained a good track record with the crypto community, and to this day, it is known as one of the most reliable hardware wallets on the market. Balancing top-notch security with ease of use and affordability, it lets you take charge of your digital wealth without worrying that a single slip-up will cost you your hard-earned funds.

With all the threats floating around in the crypto space right now, don't wait until it's too late to protect your crypto assets. Invest in a hardware wallet and enjoy better security and peace of mind. You can purchase your own Trezor Model One from the official Trezor site or from trusted local and international dealers, such as Coinvault.ph.